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The Four #1
Forgotten: Luca
Luca
I left him behind because I had no choice…
That’s what I keep telling myself, but it doesn’t make it any easier to sleep at night… or to drown out the words he kept repeating over and over the day we’d met: I just want to go home.
That was eight long years ago and I’d only known him as Billy, a terrified fourteen-year-old I’d had to leave behind to save someone else.
But his name wasn’t Billy and he’s no longer a frightened kid lost in a world where he was nothing more than a possession. His name is Remy, and while I didn’t recognize him upon meeting him again, he sure as hell remembers me.
It would be easier just to turn my back on him a second time, especially since that’s exactly what he wants, but there’s no way I can let the tormented young man go. At least not without trying to make things right first. The problem is, even if I can make up for leaving Remy behind so long ago, I’m not sure I’ll be able to walk away from him twice.
I don’t know what that means, but I do know that it scares the hell out of me.
Because needing in my world comes at a heavy price… one that not even I can afford to pay.
Remy
He gave me hope when I’d had none left, but he forgot about me just like all the others…
I fight. That’s what I do. It’s who I am.
But when Luca Covello walked into the dark, dirty room my captors were keeping me in so long ago, I’d already decided to do the one thing I hadn’t in the three years since I’d been taken from my home and family.
Give up.
Then he’d been there, like a bright light in a sea of darkness, and I’d had something new to fight for, to stay alive for… the day Luca came back to get me like he’d promised.
Except he never came.
And now, eight years later, he’s decided he wants to play the hero and save me. Well, I don’t need saving.
Not anymore… not ever.
Along with two years of sobriety under my belt, I’ve got a good job, a decent apartment, and I’ve managed to put my past where it belongs… in the past. No one, not even the gorgeous, mysterious businessman, is going to mess things up for me. If he’s come seeking forgiveness, I’m fresh out.
And if he’s come seeking something else… well, let’s just say that when I’m done with him, there’s no way he’ll forget me this time around.
Trigger Warning: For those who would like to see the trigger warnings associated with this book, please either download the sample or use the "look inside" feature and go to Trigger Warning page for more information.
I left him behind because I had no choice…
That’s what I keep telling myself, but it doesn’t make it any easier to sleep at night… or to drown out the words he kept repeating over and over the day we’d met: I just want to go home.
That was eight long years ago and I’d only known him as Billy, a terrified fourteen-year-old I’d had to leave behind to save someone else.
But his name wasn’t Billy and he’s no longer a frightened kid lost in a world where he was nothing more than a possession. His name is Remy, and while I didn’t recognize him upon meeting him again, he sure as hell remembers me.
It would be easier just to turn my back on him a second time, especially since that’s exactly what he wants, but there’s no way I can let the tormented young man go. At least not without trying to make things right first. The problem is, even if I can make up for leaving Remy behind so long ago, I’m not sure I’ll be able to walk away from him twice.
I don’t know what that means, but I do know that it scares the hell out of me.
Because needing in my world comes at a heavy price… one that not even I can afford to pay.
Remy
He gave me hope when I’d had none left, but he forgot about me just like all the others…
I fight. That’s what I do. It’s who I am.
But when Luca Covello walked into the dark, dirty room my captors were keeping me in so long ago, I’d already decided to do the one thing I hadn’t in the three years since I’d been taken from my home and family.
Give up.
Then he’d been there, like a bright light in a sea of darkness, and I’d had something new to fight for, to stay alive for… the day Luca came back to get me like he’d promised.
Except he never came.
And now, eight years later, he’s decided he wants to play the hero and save me. Well, I don’t need saving.
Not anymore… not ever.
Along with two years of sobriety under my belt, I’ve got a good job, a decent apartment, and I’ve managed to put my past where it belongs… in the past. No one, not even the gorgeous, mysterious businessman, is going to mess things up for me. If he’s come seeking forgiveness, I’m fresh out.
And if he’s come seeking something else… well, let’s just say that when I’m done with him, there’s no way he’ll forget me this time around.
Trigger Warning: For those who would like to see the trigger warnings associated with this book, please either download the sample or use the "look inside" feature and go to Trigger Warning page for more information.
304 pages, Paperback
First published July 29, 2019
827 people are currently reading
1411 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
July 13, 2021
~3.5~
This was a hard read for me. The things that were done to Remy made me physically ill. Nothing triggers me like child abuse. I also don't like reading about drug addiction (it hits too close to home; someone close to me is a recovering addict, and I've seen the destruction addiction weaves).
Kennedy doesn't sugar-coat any of the horrors, which I applaud, but at the same time, this story drips with angst and pain, more than I like in a romance.
Prepare for a slow burn. I'm talkin' molasses on a cold day. Understandably, Remy has serious issues with touch and sex; sex was always a violation, something to endure, rather than enjoy. The men connect emotionally first, and the sex doesn't come until about 90 percent.
I didn't like that the epilogue focused so much on setting up the next book with Lex, Luca's brother. Lex makes an appearance, a yet unidentified man by his side, and there is a big revelation. None of this has that much bearing on Luca and Remy's story, so I didn't see the point of including it.
I'm looking forward to the series.
This was a hard read for me. The things that were done to Remy made me physically ill. Nothing triggers me like child abuse. I also don't like reading about drug addiction (it hits too close to home; someone close to me is a recovering addict, and I've seen the destruction addiction weaves).
Kennedy doesn't sugar-coat any of the horrors, which I applaud, but at the same time, this story drips with angst and pain, more than I like in a romance.
Prepare for a slow burn. I'm talkin' molasses on a cold day. Understandably, Remy has serious issues with touch and sex; sex was always a violation, something to endure, rather than enjoy. The men connect emotionally first, and the sex doesn't come until about 90 percent.
I didn't like that the epilogue focused so much on setting up the next book with Lex, Luca's brother. Lex makes an appearance, a yet unidentified man by his side, and there is a big revelation. None of this has that much bearing on Luca and Remy's story, so I didn't see the point of including it.
I'm looking forward to the series.
July 29, 2019
I am a big fan of Sloane Kennedy's "Protectors" series. Along with the "Finding" series, it is definitely one of my favorites of her. So when I found out she was writing another spin-off, I was as happy as a pig in mud
Anyways.. those of you who are familiar with the Protectors series, and especially the twelfth book "Unbroken", already know Remy and Luca. Now for those of you who haven't read Unbroken, I strongly advice you to do so....you will enjoy this story so much more if you do. It will give you a bit more insight as to what happened between Remy and Luca in the past.
Remy has never gotten over the fact that Luca gave him hope 8 years ago and then took it away. Luca never forgave himself for having to make that difficult decision and not taking Remy away. He wants to right his wrongs....but Remy isn't making it easy (not that he should).
Thankfully Luca is not about to give up that easily. There is just something about Remy that really pulls him in and he just can't let go...no again. Throw in a traumatized son, a cute little baby girl and some meddling badasses (in a good way) and you've got yourself a delicious story about heartbreak, healing, and family.
Also, be prepared to be frustrated. This book is an extremely slow burn, so slow it gave me blue balls...and I don't even have any !!
Now I definitely understood why they were taking things slow, but my poor little black heart ( and other parts of my anatomy) just wanted them to freaking kiss already !!!
Even though this book deals with some seriously traumatized characters, the triggers weren't as huge as some of Sloane's other books. Most traumas happened in the past and this book really focuses on the present. That said...there still are some, so keep that in mind ;)
I really enjoyed this new spin-off and I can't wait to read the next book. I could have done with a bit more steam though...even if I do get why it was a bit on the milder side. What can I say...I just love me some man on man lovin'
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
July 10, 2021
This story is about Lucas and the boy he couldn't save years ago from that place where they trafficked children, Remy. Lucas was looking for his son, and ended up meeting another boy (Remy) who had lost hope until Lucas told him on that day: I'm coming back for you. But he couldn't rescue him and that leads to the present. Remy is free (he was rescued in one of the books of The Protectors series) and when they meet again, obviously Remy hates him and tells him that he does not want to know anything about him. But for Lucas, that means, 'track me down and harass me.'
Which leads to Lucas trying to help Remy in any way he can in hopes of disappearing the guilt of not being able to rescue him years ago.
I may have shed a couple of tears. What can I say? The background stories of her characters hurt.
Remy was raped and used in so many ways that he doesn't think he'll ever be able to be with anyone again and he is struggling with his drug addiction.
Lucas is not the bad guy, the decisions he had to make to find his son left him haunted, and now that he's finally got him back, it's not what he expected because Gio (his son) was brainwashed by his buyer, making him think that he was in a loving relationship with him and that he couldn't be happy with anyone else. Gio hates Lucas, doesn't recognize him as his father and hates him for having killed the 'love of his life' 🤧🤧
The comfort/hurt moments between Lucas and Remy were decent. I was pleased that Kennedy has placed more importance on emotional support than physical.
"I know it hurts, but running won't help. Not feeling won't help. There's no drug or drink strong enough to make us forget. There's no place far enough away for us to hide."
And I was also surprised because the sex scenes happened like at 90%.
I was very happy because nothing could have happened and it was fine. Remy is scared, of course it's understandable that he didn't feel ready. Which leads to the fact that he couldn't do it that night, he panicked and they just fall asleep holding each other. But the next day he wakes up and says 'I'm ready, let's go'
Me:
And lastly, the best of all. Lucas wrote a fan- *cough* porn- *cough* -fic of Harry and Malfoy years ago and reads it to Remy.
"It was Draco. Harry swallowed hard at the sight of Draco's wand. As much as he hated Draco, he'd always been impressed with how he handled his wand."
Really, just for this I am going to remember the book. 🤣 I wish it had been longer (just the porno-fic)
I lost count of the times I rolled my eyes. Either because some things did not make sense and others were like this:
"His right hand came up to stroke down my chest and my cock instantly responded."
Yes, nothing sexual happens until at the end on the book but comments like this I- IT WAS THE PROLOGUE, come on🤧🤧
I am not very clear when the things changed from I hate you, do not touch me- to -yes, I forgive you, kiss me.
Also it was not very clear to me what happened that day that Lucas meets Remy, there are pieces of it, but I thought we were going to know exactly what happened. Or maybe I missed it? 🤔🤷♀️
This is going to sound weird, but I was able to connect with the characters' stories but not with what they did in the book. I mean, my heart cried for what they had to go through, but it wasn't crying for their present?
Idk, but I'm going to read the next one. 🤣🤡
Which leads to Lucas trying to help Remy in any way he can in hopes of disappearing the guilt of not being able to rescue him years ago.
I may have shed a couple of tears. What can I say? The background stories of her characters hurt.
Remy was raped and used in so many ways that he doesn't think he'll ever be able to be with anyone again and he is struggling with his drug addiction.
Lucas is not the bad guy, the decisions he had to make to find his son left him haunted, and now that he's finally got him back, it's not what he expected because Gio (his son) was brainwashed by his buyer, making him think that he was in a loving relationship with him and that he couldn't be happy with anyone else. Gio hates Lucas, doesn't recognize him as his father and hates him for having killed the 'love of his life' 🤧🤧
The comfort/hurt moments between Lucas and Remy were decent. I was pleased that Kennedy has placed more importance on emotional support than physical.
"I know it hurts, but running won't help. Not feeling won't help. There's no drug or drink strong enough to make us forget. There's no place far enough away for us to hide."
And I was also surprised because the sex scenes happened like at 90%.
I was very happy because nothing could have happened and it was fine. Remy is scared, of course it's understandable that he didn't feel ready. Which leads to the fact that he couldn't do it that night, he panicked and they just fall asleep holding each other. But the next day he wakes up and says 'I'm ready, let's go'
Me:
And lastly, the best of all. Lucas wrote a fan- *cough* porn- *cough* -fic of Harry and Malfoy years ago and reads it to Remy.
"It was Draco. Harry swallowed hard at the sight of Draco's wand. As much as he hated Draco, he'd always been impressed with how he handled his wand."
Really, just for this I am going to remember the book. 🤣 I wish it had been longer (just the porno-fic)
I lost count of the times I rolled my eyes. Either because some things did not make sense and others were like this:
"His right hand came up to stroke down my chest and my cock instantly responded."
Yes, nothing sexual happens until at the end on the book but comments like this I- IT WAS THE PROLOGUE, come on🤧🤧
I am not very clear when the things changed from I hate you, do not touch me- to -yes, I forgive you, kiss me.
Also it was not very clear to me what happened that day that Lucas meets Remy, there are pieces of it, but I thought we were going to know exactly what happened. Or maybe I missed it? 🤔🤷♀️
This is going to sound weird, but I was able to connect with the characters' stories but not with what they did in the book. I mean, my heart cried for what they had to go through, but it wasn't crying for their present?
Idk, but I'm going to read the next one. 🤣🤡
March 6, 2020
Sigh ...... 2 stars which would have been a higher rating had the focus been taken off Violet! I wanted to read about Remy and Luca, not Remy and Violet, though given that total arsehole Luca KNOWINGLY left Billy/Remy (a CHILD) to that horrific sexual abuse by a sex trafficking paedophile ring and sorry, but I struggled with the reality of Remy falling for him. That's no hero in my book and never will be.
I needed more on Gio and Lex ... a hella lot more ... instead of the focus being on Violet. The whole Violet plot detracted from Remy and Luca's slow burn romance, and I still can't even understand why she was written into the story?? You get Violet was a big feature in this book.
This book felt overly long, with so much inner monologue and narrative, the showing was totally missing here.
Sadly not a hit for me
I needed more on Gio and Lex ... a hella lot more ... instead of the focus being on Violet. The whole Violet plot detracted from Remy and Luca's slow burn romance, and I still can't even understand why she was written into the story?? You get Violet was a big feature in this book.
This book felt overly long, with so much inner monologue and narrative, the showing was totally missing here.
Sadly not a hit for me
October 6, 2019
It was OK. If I were feeling generous today, I'd prob give it 4 stars. But I'm not, so 3.5 rounded to 3.
It started pretty dark, and right into the action, which was a little confusing at first. No context whatsoever. Even tho this is the first book of the series, I assume it started where a diff series left off.
Luca is the older man to Remy's 21 year old younger man. Don't know how old Luca is, prob. close to 40. Maybe late 30s. His son is likely similar in age, just a few years younger than Remy. He lost his son to the same sex traffic ring that took Remy from his family. That's how they met, when Luca was searching for his son, kind of under cover, and unable to rescue Remy too.
It went on from there, basically about how these two men work through their history and present. There's a hero vs. victim trope going. Older man, younger man.
OK, I rounded up. The writing is fine. The sex scenes aren't until the end and they're fine. I did feel a bit chest squeezing somewhere in the reading of the book, so I guess it resonated emotionally.
Not sure I'll read more or not. Maybe if they're all free.
It started pretty dark, and right into the action, which was a little confusing at first. No context whatsoever. Even tho this is the first book of the series, I assume it started where a diff series left off.
Luca is the older man to Remy's 21 year old younger man. Don't know how old Luca is, prob. close to 40. Maybe late 30s. His son is likely similar in age, just a few years younger than Remy. He lost his son to the same sex traffic ring that took Remy from his family. That's how they met, when Luca was searching for his son, kind of under cover, and unable to rescue Remy too.
It went on from there, basically about how these two men work through their history and present. There's a hero vs. victim trope going. Older man, younger man.
OK, I rounded up. The writing is fine. The sex scenes aren't until the end and they're fine. I did feel a bit chest squeezing somewhere in the reading of the book, so I guess it resonated emotionally.
Not sure I'll read more or not. Maybe if they're all free.
August 4, 2019
This was a huge swing and a miss for me. No way could I get past Luca leaving underage, abused, raped Billy behind with his child rapists/predators/paedophiles and then finding him sexually attractive 8 years later when he stumbles upon him again accidentally. That just grosses me out and makes me want to shoot Luca. Both for leaving him behind (sorry, I get he had a mission but what he did was unforgivable from all sides. When you make a choice that a horrifically abused 12 year old kid is collateral damage to your end game, you deserve no forgiveness) and then for wanting to have sex with Remy almost from the minute he recognizes him again.
Nothing about this scenario is remotely OK or romantic. Nothing about this book, from the over focus on Violet to the non focus of Gio. The unlikely interaction between Remy and Gio and then Remy's cure of his issues from 8 years of captivity by Luca's magic mental health penis didn't work at all and I can't get past any of that.
Nope.
Nothing about this scenario is remotely OK or romantic. Nothing about this book, from the over focus on Violet to the non focus of Gio. The unlikely interaction between Remy and Gio and then Remy's cure of his issues from 8 years of captivity by Luca's magic mental health penis didn't work at all and I can't get past any of that.
Nope.
December 9, 2019
I had forgotten how easily this author just grabs hold of your heart within just a few pages and owns it during the whole book.
It just took a few pages until I had tears in my eyes and my heart broke for Remy and Luca.
Luca finally found Gio, his kidnapped son after years of searching but he's not the boy he once was. And in the same time he also meet the boy he failed and had to leave behind. What an absolute nightmare to have to leave one boy to save your own son!
And after years of having to do awful things, getting forced to do drugs and become an addict and slowly losing hope that the man who made him a promise would come back to save him Remy is once again facing the one man that showed him kindness.
This book just rips your heart out, slices it in tiny pieces and gently puts it back together.
I loved that Remy and Luca finally got to put some of their history behind them and got a well deserved HEA
Can't wait to get my heart tortured again in the next book.
It just took a few pages until I had tears in my eyes and my heart broke for Remy and Luca.
Luca finally found Gio, his kidnapped son after years of searching but he's not the boy he once was. And in the same time he also meet the boy he failed and had to leave behind. What an absolute nightmare to have to leave one boy to save your own son!
And after years of having to do awful things, getting forced to do drugs and become an addict and slowly losing hope that the man who made him a promise would come back to save him Remy is once again facing the one man that showed him kindness.
This book just rips your heart out, slices it in tiny pieces and gently puts it back together.
I loved that Remy and Luca finally got to put some of their history behind them and got a well deserved HEA
Can't wait to get my heart tortured again in the next book.
August 4, 2019
I have been waiting nearly a year for Luca and Remy's story, and starting a new series by Sloane Kennedy - The Four.
Forgotten: Luca is the first book in this new series and it continues the story that started in Unbroken between Luca and Remy.
I have only read a couple of books by Sloane this year, so I had forgotten how emotional her darker books can be and this one pulled so much on my heart strings I actually cried REAL TEARS.
Luca and Remy have both survived years living in Hell. Remy was kidnapped as a child and tortured daily by his captors and then his pimp until he was rescued by Dante. Luca searched for eight years for his son Gio who was kidnapped and sold. Luca did all of this with the help of his brothers.
Luca and Remy have got a bond and when Luca starts following Remy and helps him find someone he is looking for, Luca takes it upon himself to keep them safe.
The relationship between these two is very strained, Luca feels so much guilt for what Remy has been through and Remy can't trust anyone let alone Luca so he is scare and nervous, they both find it hard to communicate with each other.
Over time they begin to talk and trust each other, they slowly start to get physical, there is plenty of sexual tension between them but not much sex, which I can understand.
The relationship between Luca and Gio is painful to deal with.
The epilogue was PERFECT.
I am excited to get to know Luca's brothers King, Con and the mysterious Lex in the future, I wonder what their stories will be.
It was nice having some guys from The Protectors series turning up to help Remy and the guys out.
Forgotten: Luca is the first book in this new series and it continues the story that started in Unbroken between Luca and Remy.
I have only read a couple of books by Sloane this year, so I had forgotten how emotional her darker books can be and this one pulled so much on my heart strings I actually cried REAL TEARS.
Luca and Remy have both survived years living in Hell. Remy was kidnapped as a child and tortured daily by his captors and then his pimp until he was rescued by Dante. Luca searched for eight years for his son Gio who was kidnapped and sold. Luca did all of this with the help of his brothers.
Luca and Remy have got a bond and when Luca starts following Remy and helps him find someone he is looking for, Luca takes it upon himself to keep them safe.
The relationship between these two is very strained, Luca feels so much guilt for what Remy has been through and Remy can't trust anyone let alone Luca so he is scare and nervous, they both find it hard to communicate with each other.
Over time they begin to talk and trust each other, they slowly start to get physical, there is plenty of sexual tension between them but not much sex, which I can understand.
The relationship between Luca and Gio is painful to deal with.
The epilogue was PERFECT.
I am excited to get to know Luca's brothers King, Con and the mysterious Lex in the future, I wonder what their stories will be.
It was nice having some guys from The Protectors series turning up to help Remy and the guys out.
August 16, 2019
Mi rating está solo basado en mis gustos personales, en ningún caso es un juicio a la autora o a quienes les pueda gustar el libro. Me incomoda y me duele leer sobre abusos a niños, no puedo disfrutar absolutamente nada la lectura así que doy DNF en el 7%.
August 3, 2019
This was one of the angstiest stories that I've read in a while, and considering that it comes from Ms Kennedy, the Queen of Angst, that's saying something. This is not fluffy, and romantic aspect is explored way later in the book because most of it deals with trigger issues as both Luca and Remy try to cope with their past and present as well as try to heal and move on. At times Remy's story broke my heart. That young man went through something that no one ever should have. And his resilience and will to live , frankly speaking, are astounding and a little humbling. And even despite his own pain, he was willing to drop everything and be there for a little girl with no one to turn to. Remy needed time to see his own worth since not even his own family saw any in him. He in a way needed Luca to heal even when he didn't know it himself.
Luca may show a tough silent attitude to the world but on the inside he is one big bleeding wound. The situation with his son is so painful, the guilt over his past mistakes is almost crippling that he barely lives - he merely exists in wait of something to change. So when he comes face to face with one person who is starring in his nightmares every night, he needs to make amends. What starts as an attempt for an apology brings new awareness for Remy's beauty and strength of character. Luca together with Remy races to save Violet, little girl who unwittingly bridges a gap between them wider than Grand Canyon. Little by little they are able to let go until no hatred is left but desire for more.
I honestly loved the budding romance between them. It was a bit awkward, at times shy and so very cute. A world weary Remy and a befuddled Luca were learning each other from scratch. All of Luca's brothers chipped in with their "helpful" advice and good-natured ribbing that just made me want to know more about them all. The breakthrough with Luca's son Gio was just heart-wrenching, but I am so glad it happened because it really needed to happen for Gio's sanity and ability to start to heal. The ending was happy and yet a little sad since the mystery of Luca's brother Lex was finally revealed. And, OMG I can't wait to read about what happened to him. I loved this very angsty and emotionally charged book sprinkled with romance and familial bonds. Some characters from the Protectors made an appearance which made this book even sweeter. I highly recommend it!
Luca may show a tough silent attitude to the world but on the inside he is one big bleeding wound. The situation with his son is so painful, the guilt over his past mistakes is almost crippling that he barely lives - he merely exists in wait of something to change. So when he comes face to face with one person who is starring in his nightmares every night, he needs to make amends. What starts as an attempt for an apology brings new awareness for Remy's beauty and strength of character. Luca together with Remy races to save Violet, little girl who unwittingly bridges a gap between them wider than Grand Canyon. Little by little they are able to let go until no hatred is left but desire for more.
I honestly loved the budding romance between them. It was a bit awkward, at times shy and so very cute. A world weary Remy and a befuddled Luca were learning each other from scratch. All of Luca's brothers chipped in with their "helpful" advice and good-natured ribbing that just made me want to know more about them all. The breakthrough with Luca's son Gio was just heart-wrenching, but I am so glad it happened because it really needed to happen for Gio's sanity and ability to start to heal. The ending was happy and yet a little sad since the mystery of Luca's brother Lex was finally revealed. And, OMG I can't wait to read about what happened to him. I loved this very angsty and emotionally charged book sprinkled with romance and familial bonds. Some characters from the Protectors made an appearance which made this book even sweeter. I highly recommend it!
October 5, 2019
This is a spin off series. I haven't read the original series so I did feel like I'd missed out. I wasn't lost or anything, just wishing I'd read the interesting back story I could see here.
4.5 stars for two broken men who find a way forward with each other.
Luca and Remy are such strong men. Fighting ghosts from their past and their present. Things that would break most people. Yet they keep finding a way to move forward. They have a vicious past with each other as well. Something that neither find it it easy to forgive.
When a distressed baby girl in need brings them together it is a volatile situation between them. Watching them with the baby and seeing the few moments when they let their guards down with each other was as heartbreaking as it was heartwarming.
Alongside that emotional situation was the mind numbing sorrow over Luca's son Gio who'd recently been rescued but far from recovered from his trauma. Again, Luca and Remy's scenes with Gio were stunning in their emotion.
Throughout the story these men seemed to have so few good moments together that they shine bright white when they appeared.
Before I continue with this series I think I need to go back and read the previous one. I can't imagine how much more impactful this one would be with the appropriate background known.
4.5 stars for two broken men who find a way forward with each other.
Luca and Remy are such strong men. Fighting ghosts from their past and their present. Things that would break most people. Yet they keep finding a way to move forward. They have a vicious past with each other as well. Something that neither find it it easy to forgive.
When a distressed baby girl in need brings them together it is a volatile situation between them. Watching them with the baby and seeing the few moments when they let their guards down with each other was as heartbreaking as it was heartwarming.
Alongside that emotional situation was the mind numbing sorrow over Luca's son Gio who'd recently been rescued but far from recovered from his trauma. Again, Luca and Remy's scenes with Gio were stunning in their emotion.
Throughout the story these men seemed to have so few good moments together that they shine bright white when they appeared.
Before I continue with this series I think I need to go back and read the previous one. I can't imagine how much more impactful this one would be with the appropriate background known.
August 4, 2019
3.5 stars
I liked this, but I sometimes felt as if there was something missing.
Luca’s son was taken 8 years ago and Luca and his brothers have been searching for him ever since. In his search to find his son, Luca encountered Billy, a boy of 14 years old who Luca was to have sex with to prove he was the real thing when he was posing as someone willing to buy a boy for his own.
Luca promised Billy he would be back for him, but he never got the chance.
Now Luca meets Remy, the boy who’s no longer a boy. He is now a damaged 22 year old man, who hates Luca for never getting him out.
Remy remembers the man who promised him he would get him out and he hates him.
But Luca can’t just let Remy go, so he follows him to make sure the young man is alright. When he sees Remy getting in trouble with a man, he intervenes. It turns out Remy is looking for someone and needs the pimp to tell him where that someone is.
After Luca got the information out of the pimp, Luca follows Remy to a building where people are either shooting up or prostituting themselves. It is there that Remy finally finds Violet, a 2 year old girl whose mother just died. Remy heard that someone wanted to sell the little girl so he went out to find her.
Now Luca doesn’t just feel responsible for keeping Remy safe, but the little girl as well.
And Remy slowly finds out Luca didn’t just leave Remy all these years ago, but had no choice because he had to choose between rescuing him or following a lead about his son….
I was glad this had such a slow burn, since Remy was quite traumatized when it came to sex. But still I felt as if the romance was lacking something. I’m not even sure what exactly, but I know I didn’t quite feel the romance as I did in other Sloane Kennedy books.
What I am really interested in is how things will go with Gio, Luca’s son! He was such an interesting character. I can’t wait for his book.
I liked this, but I sometimes felt as if there was something missing.
Luca’s son was taken 8 years ago and Luca and his brothers have been searching for him ever since. In his search to find his son, Luca encountered Billy, a boy of 14 years old who Luca was to have sex with to prove he was the real thing when he was posing as someone willing to buy a boy for his own.
Luca promised Billy he would be back for him, but he never got the chance.
Now Luca meets Remy, the boy who’s no longer a boy. He is now a damaged 22 year old man, who hates Luca for never getting him out.
Remy remembers the man who promised him he would get him out and he hates him.
But Luca can’t just let Remy go, so he follows him to make sure the young man is alright. When he sees Remy getting in trouble with a man, he intervenes. It turns out Remy is looking for someone and needs the pimp to tell him where that someone is.
After Luca got the information out of the pimp, Luca follows Remy to a building where people are either shooting up or prostituting themselves. It is there that Remy finally finds Violet, a 2 year old girl whose mother just died. Remy heard that someone wanted to sell the little girl so he went out to find her.
Now Luca doesn’t just feel responsible for keeping Remy safe, but the little girl as well.
And Remy slowly finds out Luca didn’t just leave Remy all these years ago, but had no choice because he had to choose between rescuing him or following a lead about his son….
I was glad this had such a slow burn, since Remy was quite traumatized when it came to sex. But still I felt as if the romance was lacking something. I’m not even sure what exactly, but I know I didn’t quite feel the romance as I did in other Sloane Kennedy books.
What I am really interested in is how things will go with Gio, Luca’s son! He was such an interesting character. I can’t wait for his book.
August 26, 2019
3.5 stars.
Talk about a slow burn. If you think you've read slow burn before, you haven't read Forgotten: Luca yet. I'm not going to sugarcoat it, it was a really hard read. Not everyone's cup of tea. Which is why the romance was practically nonexistent until closer to the end and it made sense.
There's a lot of up and downs, emotional and physical issues to get through for Luca and especially Remy for them to be happy and accepting of themselves and each other. To find love. And they get it and it makes me so happy. But it's a long road ahead and it made me want to squeeze them and never let go.
I really did enjoy this book and I'm excited for more!
Talk about a slow burn. If you think you've read slow burn before, you haven't read Forgotten: Luca yet. I'm not going to sugarcoat it, it was a really hard read. Not everyone's cup of tea. Which is why the romance was practically nonexistent until closer to the end and it made sense.
There's a lot of up and downs, emotional and physical issues to get through for Luca and especially Remy for them to be happy and accepting of themselves and each other. To find love. And they get it and it makes me so happy. But it's a long road ahead and it made me want to squeeze them and never let go.
I really did enjoy this book and I'm excited for more!
July 18, 2020
I appreciated that this was a very slow burn with no magic dick cure for all the trauma this pair went through.
It's a spin off from The Protectors series, but it's not full of the same action adventure drama as those romances.
This is much more focused on two men coming to terms with their shared experience and the unique horrors Remy lived through.
It's a spin off from The Protectors series, but it's not full of the same action adventure drama as those romances.
This is much more focused on two men coming to terms with their shared experience and the unique horrors Remy lived through.
June 24, 2020
New series from Sloane Kennedy, but strongly linked to her “Protectors”, especially “Unbroken” that I reread before this one, even though I remembered it quite well. In retrospective, it was a good move as “Unforgotten” takes place right where “Unbroken” ends when it comes to Luca and Remy. It’s easy to guess this spin-off will be about the four brothers, starting with Luca.
Exit menagerie and crying flood : back on the angst, and, surprise, a massive slow burn (with Remy’s past, it was for the best to take that road imo). And trust Sloane Kennedy to make a slow burn so hot and emotional.
Remy has so much baggage to unload (abandonment, abuse, addiction) and Luca has so much guilt on his shoulders with not being able to rescue Remy and taking such a long time before getting his son, Gio, back.
I felt a lot of sadness for Remy, his broken childhood, his loneliness. But also a lot of proudness for his strength and his caring for the sweet baby-girl of his friend.
Both Luca and Remy can finally put the past behind. It will never be forgotten, but they now have a lot to be looking forward together.
Exit menagerie and crying flood : back on the angst, and, surprise, a massive slow burn (with Remy’s past, it was for the best to take that road imo). And trust Sloane Kennedy to make a slow burn so hot and emotional.
Remy has so much baggage to unload (abandonment, abuse, addiction) and Luca has so much guilt on his shoulders with not being able to rescue Remy and taking such a long time before getting his son, Gio, back.
I felt a lot of sadness for Remy, his broken childhood, his loneliness. But also a lot of proudness for his strength and his caring for the sweet baby-girl of his friend.
Both Luca and Remy can finally put the past behind. It will never be forgotten, but they now have a lot to be looking forward together.
February 9, 2023
That hurt. OMG that hurt. I loved every heartbreaking minute. I couldn’t make up my mind who I hurt for the most. They’ve all suffered so much and deserve so much love.
1/5/2020 I couldn’t reread Unbroken and not reread Forgotten: Luca immediately. I am ready for the next brother’s book.
7/4/2021 still enjoyed this angst riddled book.
1/5/2020 I couldn’t reread Unbroken and not reread Forgotten: Luca immediately. I am ready for the next brother’s book.
7/4/2021 still enjoyed this angst riddled book.
July 20, 2022
Oh wow, this book was something. Dark and tender at the same time. It is characterizes as a standalone but I felt like I was missing some big things. The story and the characters were really touching
February 1, 2022
❝ There was not doubt in my mind that he had every piece of my heart now and that no matter what condition I got it back in, it would never be mine again. ❞
this book was heavy. i forgot how sloane kennedy writes her novels even though i devoured a big chunk of her collection last year. i liked this but im not sure if i enjoyed it. i was invested though through and through. lets just say i wasnt in the proper mindset when i took this one up. the very very slowburn + high angst + histories of pain for both mcs is def one deadly combo. looking forward for the next ones! this time without drinking caffeine or anything. i was palpitating when i read this lmao
August 6, 2019
Overwhelming on the angst with a miniscule side of romance. 3.5 stars rounded up, and you may need tissues. 😢 Not sure this can be read as a standalone as so many of the characters appear in various other Sloane stories, but of course you're welcome to try 😉.
Luckily for Luca, Gio seems to finally be turning the corner as far as his brainwashing is concerned and now actually accepts that Luca is his father. Remy, I'm happy to say, is completely loved up with Luca and seems to be going from strength to strength.
My views on child abuse and trafficking are well documented...see my review of Auctioned. Drug addiction and the heartache and problems it causes for both the addict and the people on the outside looking in I have no personal experience of, BUT can obviously imagine how destructive it is.
Luckily for Luca, Gio seems to finally be turning the corner as far as his brainwashing is concerned and now actually accepts that Luca is his father. Remy, I'm happy to say, is completely loved up with Luca and seems to be going from strength to strength.
My views on child abuse and trafficking are well documented...see my review of Auctioned. Drug addiction and the heartache and problems it causes for both the addict and the people on the outside looking in I have no personal experience of, BUT can obviously imagine how destructive it is.
January 16, 2023
Re-read January 16, 2023
I read about 75% of this. I struggled with it because of the constant angst. It's like a boulder of doom that tolls downhill and wipes out an entire town.
Now, this is all me. Once, I loved this book and I bet one day I will again. But right now, my life has enough drama...so I have a hard time reading about it too. I will read this again one day and probably love it again, but for right now I need to stop and come back to this series and author at another time. *slams head on desk*
Re-read 8-8-21
I read about 75% of this. I struggled with it because of the constant angst. It's like a boulder of doom that tolls downhill and wipes out an entire town.
Now, this is all me. Once, I loved this book and I bet one day I will again. But right now, my life has enough drama...so I have a hard time reading about it too. I will read this again one day and probably love it again, but for right now I need to stop and come back to this series and author at another time. *slams head on desk*
Re-read 8-8-21
August 14, 2019
"Painful but a worth while read 😥. I love how this author intermixes her other characters from her previous series with her new books, it’s like one huge family that looks out for each other. Looking forward to Lex's story and the rest of the brothers. 😊
July 31, 2019
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Technically, this book can be read as a standalone. It says so right at the beginning. Plus it's the first book in a new series. That said, I would still recommend that you familiarize yourself with the Sloane Kennedy's world. Maybe read Atonement and Unbroken beforehand? Or perhaps only Unbroken, since it's the book that introduces one of the main characters, and tells us who The Four are.
The main character in question is Luca who, with the help of his brothers, spent eight years searching for his son who had been kidnapped. He had to be a part of a horrible world of people who sold and bought children for sex so that he could get any clue as to where his son might be.
Remy was one of the kids taken from his family. Eight years ago, he met Luca who promised to help get him out of there. Except that didn't happen.
Now, finally, the two meet again. Remy has been free for two years and Luca has found his son, but both are still struggling because of the things they witnessed and endured. Remy hates Luca, not just for the lack of rescue, but for making him think there would be one. Luca has spent eight years feels guilty about the teenager he let down. And they're finally get a chance to build some trust, and maybe more. Just not in the way I'd expected.
See, I've read almost all of Sloane Kennedy's novels. I know all the characters and the tropes she favors. But with this book, I had certain things I was expecting-slash-hoping-for that didn't happen. Gio and his recovery, for one, was not featured as prominently as I'd thought it would be. Also, the two protagonists were not on equal standing.
You see, with most of the author's books, we always have at least one main characters who's more emotionally (or in terms of safety) fragile than the other(s). Which leads of a dynamic of one character protecting the other. With this book I was hoping that, since Remy has been building a life for himself and quite self-sufficient, we'd get to see two characters with a truly equal partnership instead of a protector-protectee thing ...which didn't happen. In fact, the only time we've come close to such a thing was in Atonement.
But that was my only issue with the book. It was a really good read. There was the trust building that I'd wanted to see. I really like Remy as a character and Luca is... fine as well. I don't dislike him but he's not my favourite either. I liked how supportive he was of Remy though and I felt horrible for what he was going through with his son.
Remy's struggle with drugs was very well portrayed, as an ongoing battle that he'd have to fight for years to come, maybe his whole life. I also liked how the author showed the amount of responsibility Remy was willing to take. Remy is quite a self-aware character when it comes to what he can handle. And I loved that he could admit to himself when something might become too much for him. Also, there was a surprise bond between two characters later on in the book that I really loved.
Overall, this was a very good start to a series. And even though I'm still not sold on all of Luca's brothers, I'm definitely looking forward to the next book specifically, though I can't talk about why because spoilers.
Technically, this book can be read as a standalone. It says so right at the beginning. Plus it's the first book in a new series. That said, I would still recommend that you familiarize yourself with the Sloane Kennedy's world. Maybe read Atonement and Unbroken beforehand? Or perhaps only Unbroken, since it's the book that introduces one of the main characters, and tells us who The Four are.
The main character in question is Luca who, with the help of his brothers, spent eight years searching for his son who had been kidnapped. He had to be a part of a horrible world of people who sold and bought children for sex so that he could get any clue as to where his son might be.
Remy was one of the kids taken from his family. Eight years ago, he met Luca who promised to help get him out of there. Except that didn't happen.
Now, finally, the two meet again. Remy has been free for two years and Luca has found his son, but both are still struggling because of the things they witnessed and endured. Remy hates Luca, not just for the lack of rescue, but for making him think there would be one. Luca has spent eight years feels guilty about the teenager he let down. And they're finally get a chance to build some trust, and maybe more. Just not in the way I'd expected.
See, I've read almost all of Sloane Kennedy's novels. I know all the characters and the tropes she favors. But with this book, I had certain things I was expecting-slash-hoping-for that didn't happen. Gio and his recovery, for one, was not featured as prominently as I'd thought it would be. Also, the two protagonists were not on equal standing.
You see, with most of the author's books, we always have at least one main characters who's more emotionally (or in terms of safety) fragile than the other(s). Which leads of a dynamic of one character protecting the other. With this book I was hoping that, since Remy has been building a life for himself and quite self-sufficient, we'd get to see two characters with a truly equal partnership instead of a protector-protectee thing ...which didn't happen. In fact, the only time we've come close to such a thing was in Atonement.
But that was my only issue with the book. It was a really good read. There was the trust building that I'd wanted to see. I really like Remy as a character and Luca is... fine as well. I don't dislike him but he's not my favourite either. I liked how supportive he was of Remy though and I felt horrible for what he was going through with his son.
Remy's struggle with drugs was very well portrayed, as an ongoing battle that he'd have to fight for years to come, maybe his whole life. I also liked how the author showed the amount of responsibility Remy was willing to take. Remy is quite a self-aware character when it comes to what he can handle. And I loved that he could admit to himself when something might become too much for him. Also, there was a surprise bond between two characters later on in the book that I really loved.
Overall, this was a very good start to a series. And even though I'm still not sold on all of Luca's brothers, I'm definitely looking forward to the next book specifically, though I can't talk about why because spoilers.
August 8, 2022
Story: 3.5 ⭐️
Narration: It’s Michael Dean which for me is just “meh” performances 🤷🏽♀️ So a 3 ⭐️
Welcome to man pain, trauma, and more man pain with trauma as the sprinkles. The story isn’t bad but like damn let the mans dem get some damn rainbows.
September 28, 2019
Terrifying, touching, tremendous and tantalizing !
Sloane Kennedy continues to amaze me with the depth and intensity in her powerful stories. I have read all of the Protector Series, and know the recurring characters so well. This new crossover is a hit.
* Powerful Luca and his brothers, had been searching for his son, Gio, when he infiltrated the sex trafficking trade, where he had gotten clues to find Gio, but had to leave Remy behind. Remy’s life was miserable, and he’d lost hope, but Luca had given his a small spark to keep him going.
* Now, years later, Gio is in a Psychiatric Home, angry and not talking to anyone, especially his father, Luca. Luca also struggles with his guilt for leaving Remy behind. Luca helps Remy rescue a 2yr. old, Violet, and Luca becomes their protector. The relationship is complicated, deeply thought filled, thrilling and terrifying.
* I loved the intense characters, meaningful conversations, devotion and dedication to their need for each other.
There are decisions to be made, more memories to uncover, and satisfying conclusions are brought about.
We see first times, passionate displays, and promises kept.
I highly recommend this M/M tale.
Enjoy !
=====
Sloane Kennedy continues to amaze me with the depth and intensity in her powerful stories. I have read all of the Protector Series, and know the recurring characters so well. This new crossover is a hit.
* Powerful Luca and his brothers, had been searching for his son, Gio, when he infiltrated the sex trafficking trade, where he had gotten clues to find Gio, but had to leave Remy behind. Remy’s life was miserable, and he’d lost hope, but Luca had given his a small spark to keep him going.
* Now, years later, Gio is in a Psychiatric Home, angry and not talking to anyone, especially his father, Luca. Luca also struggles with his guilt for leaving Remy behind. Luca helps Remy rescue a 2yr. old, Violet, and Luca becomes their protector. The relationship is complicated, deeply thought filled, thrilling and terrifying.
* I loved the intense characters, meaningful conversations, devotion and dedication to their need for each other.
There are decisions to be made, more memories to uncover, and satisfying conclusions are brought about.
We see first times, passionate displays, and promises kept.
I highly recommend this M/M tale.
Enjoy !
=====
July 26, 2019
I received an ARC for an honest review. This book, Holy WOW.... Break out the tissues your going to need them. I was so excited for this book. So very good, amazing & heartbreaking. I loved Remy & Luca! Oh how my heart broke for Remy, I don't know how many times I wanted to hug him after yelling at him. He deserves love. Luca... I was iffy on him but I ended up loving him & my heart hurt for him too so much(Gio). It was great to read on re accruing characters in the book along with Luca's son & brothers. Looking forward to the next book! A Must Read!!!
August 5, 2019
SK always wins with me!
Granted, the stories and MCs are often similar from one book to another but... Heh. It works for me!
This new series is no exception and I'll follow what's next as usual!!
Granted, the stories and MCs are often similar from one book to another but... Heh. It works for me!
This new series is no exception and I'll follow what's next as usual!!
December 30, 2021
I know what I'm getting into with these books so I expect them to be dark and for them to be insta-lovey with an age gap and some one having been abused at some point. For all of that, they're well written and I do enjoy the stories because I'm prepared for the angst.
I knew this story was coming so was planning for these two to find their way together. I like them as a couple. For all that the age gap still bugs me these two made sense to me. I felt for Luca and the pain he was dealing with unable to get through to his son after what he'd been through. I liked how Remy handled their interactions and helped bring him out of the denial he was stuck in.
This is really just a continuation of the Protectors series and as such I enjoy it.
I knew this story was coming so was planning for these two to find their way together. I like them as a couple. For all that the age gap still bugs me these two made sense to me. I felt for Luca and the pain he was dealing with unable to get through to his son after what he'd been through. I liked how Remy handled their interactions and helped bring him out of the denial he was stuck in.
This is really just a continuation of the Protectors series and as such I enjoy it.
August 14, 2019
It’s no secret I love Sloane Kennedy’s books. I loved reading about Remy’s happily ever after. The kid deserved it after so much trauma.
You cannot read this without reading Unbroken in the Protecters series. He helps Dante find Aleks and he gets help from Roman to get off the streets and clean.
I love getting more from Luca. He shows his softer side to Remy and his family and it about kills me what he is going through with his son, Gio. Gino is getting better, Remy has finally learned to trust in his family and Luca is getting his happy ending.
This does has triggers (you’ll know them if you have read The Protectors) so be warned, but worth the pain to see the men get their endings.
You cannot read this without reading Unbroken in the Protecters series. He helps Dante find Aleks and he gets help from Roman to get off the streets and clean.
I love getting more from Luca. He shows his softer side to Remy and his family and it about kills me what he is going through with his son, Gio. Gino is getting better, Remy has finally learned to trust in his family and Luca is getting his happy ending.
This does has triggers (you’ll know them if you have read The Protectors) so be warned, but worth the pain to see the men get their endings.
September 21, 2019
I stopped reading Protectors because I didn't want to delve into Aleks's abuse in the sex traffic industry and his relationship with his rescuer, Vaughn. But I didn't realize that although this is a new series, it's about Vaughn's brother and Aleks's friend and co-abusee, Remy. I guess if I had read Unbroken, I would have realized who Remy and Luca are and perhaps not read this. Speculation, though. The reality is it's an okay story on the surface, but there's so much past child abuse, sex trafficking, drug addiction, child kidnapping, PTSD, and more that it took me four days to complete. I could only read a few pages at a time and if it wasn't for completing a challenge, I may have simply stopped.
The one thing that saved this for me is that the author didn't have the couple engaging in sex until the very end of the story. Any earlier would have been too much, and as it is, with the abuse this young man suffered all his life, even that was difficult to believe. And as an aside, his parents were despicable. And I'm so sick of despicable parents.
So, though I really wanted to like it more than this, it was too much like most of the previous series and way too dark to leave me with a good feeling.
The one thing that saved this for me is that the author didn't have the couple engaging in sex until the very end of the story. Any earlier would have been too much, and as it is, with the abuse this young man suffered all his life, even that was difficult to believe. And as an aside, his parents were despicable. And I'm so sick of despicable parents.
So, though I really wanted to like it more than this, it was too much like most of the previous series and way too dark to leave me with a good feeling.
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